Chad Shockley, athletic and activities director for the St. James School District, has earned the title of Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) in partnership with the Missouri Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA).

“This nationally recognized certification represents more than a professional milestone. It reflects Chad’s deep commitment to educational-based athletics and his continued pursuit of excellence in service to our student-athletes,” the district posted to social media last week.

To earn the CAA designation, Shockley completed advanced training in a variety of areas including legal compliance, organizational leadership, and the philosophy of educational athletics. He also had to complete a certification exam.

“This achievement raises the bar for our athletic department’s professional standards, strengthens the student-athlete experience through informed, ethical and strategic leadership, and) reinforces our district’s dedication to the mission of educational-based athletics in partnership with MIAAA and MSHSAA (Missouri State High School Activities Association),” the district said in the social media post. “We are proud to have strong leadership at the helm of our athletics program and we’re grateful for Chad’s ongoing dedication to our students, staff and the Tiger community.